Romans 8:14-17

“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by Him we cry ‘Abba, Father.’ The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs – heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share his suffering in order that we may also share in his glory.”

In these verses, Paul uses the term adoption in order to show the new relationship with have with God and Christ. In the Roman culture, an adopted child lost all rights in his or her old family and gained all rights of a legitimate child in his new family. Likewise, when someone comes to Christ and becomes a follower and believer, he inherits the same responsibilities and privileges as that of a child of God. One of these privileges that we receive is to be led by the Holy Spirit. Even when we don’t feel like we are apart of this awesome family, we still are a part. The Holy Spirit becomes our witness. His presence inside us reminds us of who we are and encourages us with God’s love. Are you part of the family?

Dear God, thank you that I can be a part of your family. Give me your wisdom and knowledge to know what I should and should not do. Help me to help others realize that they are part of the family of God and what that entails. I pray this through Jesus’ name, Amen.